The Pad Studios
Sure, we all know yoga is soothing for the soul, and a great way to calm the mind, but what about when you’re looking to break a sweat along with curbing the cranium clutter? Well, head straight to The Pad Studio's power yoga course to get a fulfillment of both — cardio and zen. The Vinyasa-style class is fast-paced, incredibly challenging (in a good way), all the while somehow managing to be completely relaxing, too. The studio errs on the smaller side, but you won’t feel cramped one bit — since it offers a clean, crisp, airy interior. We recommend signing up for the power yoga courses with Brad, but be prepared to push yourself! This place is ideal for yogis looking to take their practice to the next level!
Price: Drop-in for $18, three-class introductory package for $20.
The Pad Studios, 1690 Union Street (between Franklin and Gough streets); 415-929-1690.

Bay Club San Francisco
For all-around athletic types who like their yoga with a side of squash, some hoops, or time on the elliptical, there’s the Bay Club San Francisco. The 88,000-square-foot center features every sport imaginable, from lap swimming to SURFset, a surf-inspired conditioning class. The gym’s crowning jewel is the Mind and Body Center, designed by the renowned Orlando Diaz-Azcuy, and featuring three yoga studios. The Great Room holds around 80 yogis and we’re told the light in the room at sunrise yoga will take your breath away. Classes are offered every day in all styles and range from beginner to advanced — we suggest popping into an open level.
Price: Classes free with membership. Fees start at $130 depending on membership tier and there is an initiation fee that varies throughout the year.
Bay Club San Francisco, 150 Greenwich Street (between Battery and Sansome streets); 415-433-2200; 555 California Street (between Spring and Kearny streets); 415-362-7800.

Bernal Yoga
Right when we entered this spacious Bernal Heights haven, it was love at first sight. The candlelit lobby, cerebral-sounding tunes, and friendly staff already had us sold — and we hadn’t even got started. We will admit that the open-level Vinyasa class led by Jacqui was a challenge for us — with balancing and holding poses longer than we’re used to. But she was incredibly aware of all students’ form and pace level, and does her best to work with each individual and make everyone feel comfortable. We highly recommend Jacqui, but are sure that any instructor you get here is guaranteed to be top-notch. If you’re looking to expand on your practice in a space that involves a high-energy mind and body workout in a one-of-a-kind studio, you’ve met your match.
Price: Drop-in class for $17, new student two-week pass for $25, monthly package for $140.
Bernal Yoga, 908 Courtland Avenue (between Folsom and Gates streets); 415-643-9007.

Photo: Via The Pad Studios